Piazza San Giacomo

You’re now standing in Piazza San Giacomo, facing the church of the same name. To its right are the Oratories of the Souls and the Oratory of the Santissimo Crocifisso. The latter is home to the Archconfraternity of the Holy Crucifix, which plays a central role in many of the religious rites that take place in Cagliari during Holy Week.

The Church of San Giacomo is one of the city’s oldest parishes. The first recorded mention of it dates back to 1346, and its bell tower was added in the 1440s. The church is one of the earliest examples of Catalan Gothic architecture in Sardinia and its style influenced the design of several other churches across the island. In 1630, it was elevated to the rank of collegiate church, but it wasn’t consecrated until a century later.

Its current neoclassical façade was added in the 19th century. Inside, you’ll find five chapels lining each side of the nave. Its highlights include a valuable pipe organ and a rare collection of terracotta statues, the 15th-century Compianto, depicting the mourning over the dead Christ.